Dora Sigerson Shorter

A Changeling

My Future lay cradled asleep;I kissed the sweet mouth and she smiledWith a promise of all she should be,Womanhood crowning the child—Her wings that would grow with her growth,Till they bore her to heaven at last;When she queened in the world awhile,Then all the sweet mockery past.So closing my eyes while I dreamt,Thus praying on her behalf,I could but think I had slept,For I woke with an elfin laugh.What fairy had crept through the doorTo leave me this changeling child,Who looked on my tears with a laugh,And mocked at my prayers as she smiled?